Citron goby

Gobiodon citrinus

Family : Gobiidae

FishMarinegoby

A small bright yellow goby, symbiotic with Acropora corals, highly valued in reef aquariums for its color and peaceful behavior.

Citron goby — photo 1 sur 4
Sir Francis Day · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 4
Popularity
Beginner marine fish
reef-compatible
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Indo-Pacific
Récifs coralliens de l'océan Indien et Pacifique tropical.

Description

Gobiodon citrinus reaches up to 6 cm. Its body is elongated, laterally compressed, with a uniform bright yellow coloration sometimes marked by fine blue lines on the head. It has large pectoral fins and a rounded caudal fin. It secretes a toxic mucus that protects it from predators. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males slightly larger during breeding season.

Habitat

Region :

The citron goby inhabits lagoons and shallow coral reefs, typically associated with branching corals of the genus Acropora. It often hides among the coral branches, using them for protection against predators. It is found at depths of 1 to 30 meters in clear, well-oxygenated waters.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH8.18.4
Salinity1.021.025
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
40 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
6 cm
Lifespan
4 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation

Care notes

A minimum 40-liter tank is recommended, with moderate lighting and good water flow. Stable parameters: temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. It is essential to provide Acropora corals or branch-like structures for resting and security. Diet: small frozen crustaceans (brine shrimp, mysis) and enriched flake food. Compatible with most peaceful fish and reef invertebrates. Caution: do not keep with aggressive fish or predatory crabs.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References